Monitoring takes place after the consent to the placing of a genetically modified organism on the market.

The interpretation of the data collected by monitoring should be considered in the light of other existing environmental conditions and activities. Where changes in the environment are observed, further assessment should be considered to establish whether they are a consequence of the genetically modified organism or its use, as such changes may be the result of environmental factors other than the placing of the genetically modified organism on the market.

Experience and data gained through the monitoring of experimental releases of genetically modified organisms may assist in designing the post marketing monitoring regime required for the placing on the market of genetically modified organisms as or in products.